BullGuard antivirus Review: NortonLifeLock Inc has acquired BullGuard, a highly effective antimalware tool. As part of the acquisition, the BullGuard antivirus suite will eventually be rebranded as Norton and will no longer carry its name. This news should not be upsetting for loyal BullGuard users as Norton antivirus is one of the best antiviruses available in the market today. All the features that made BullGuard popular such as Parental Control, PC optimization, and cloud backup are also included in Norton’s offerings.Apart from these features, Norton has a reputation for providing excellent customer support and frequently updates its software to keep up with emerging threats. Combining the capabilities of both tools can only result in better protection for users against malware and cyber threats. The acquisition of BullGuard by NortonLifeLock Inc is a significant development in the antivirus industry that could potentially lead to even more advanced security solutions in the future.
BullGuard antivirus Review 2024
When it comes to selecting an antivirus program, several crucial aspects need to be taken into account. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a detailed review of BullGuard antivirus, covering essential factors such as security, performance, features, usability, and pricing.An evaluation of BullGuard’s performance in securing your device against various threats can help you make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice for you. Besides, assessing its features and usability will help determine if it is user-friendly and offers advanced functionalities that meet your requirements.Comparing BullGuard’s pricing with other options available in the market can help you find the best value for money while ensuring maximum protection for your device. By considering all these factors, you can select an antivirus program that meets your specific needs and safeguards your device from cyber threats.
BullGuard antivirus Review 2024 Quick Overview
| Norton Antivirus | BullGuard Antivirus | |
| ⭐ Rating: | ||
| 🥇 Overall rank: | #2 out of #25 | #14 out of #25 |
| 🔥 Coupons: | Norton Antivirus coupon 66% OFF | Bullguard coupon 60% OFF |
| 💵 Price: | From $19.99/year | From $23.99 (1 device) |
| ✂️ Free version: | No | No (but offers a trial version) |
| 🖥️ Platforms: | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Android |
BullGuard Pros & Cons
When it comes to protecting your computer from viruses and malware, choosing the right antivirus software is crucial. BullGuard is a popular option that offers a range of features designed to keep your devices safe and secure. But like any antivirus software, it has its pros and cons. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what BullGuard has to offer and discuss its strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re considering switching to BullGuard or just want to learn more about it, this review will help you make an informed decision. So let’s dive in and explore the world of BullGuard antivirus!
Pros
cons
Is BullGuard safe?
Bullguard Antivirus is generally considered to be a safe and reliable application, but finding antimalware test results online can be challenging. Although AV-Comparatives stopped testing Bullguard in 2018, AV-Test continues to include it in their evaluations. The test scores for Bullguard have been impressive, with a maximum score of 6 points for protection in June 2021. Since June 2017, Bullguard has consistently scored either 6 or 5.5 for protection, indicating its strong ability to detect threats. However, it is important to note that while test results can provide useful information, they are not the only factor to consider when choosing an antivirus software. Other factors such as ease of use, customer support, and pricing should also be taken into account when making a decision on which software to use.
Despite a poor reputation in its early days, Bullguard has managed to become a reliable antivirus tool and users don’t need to worry about using it. Although there were low test scores initially, the software managed to improve its performance and establish itself as a trustworthy option. As with many antivirus programs, BullGuard may detect some false positives. In August 2021, it detected six false positives during tests which is no higher than the current industry average. It’s important to keep in mind that false positives are not uncommon and should not undermine the program’s overall effectiveness in protecting your device from malware and other threats.
Bitdefender Antivirus Review 2024
BullGuard Security & Features
BullGuard antivirus is a comprehensive security suite that includes all the necessary features like real-time protection, a firewall, and antivirus scans. Additionally, it offers various quality-of-life features such as Game Booster. It’s important to note that BullGuard comes in three different tiers – Antivirus, Internet Security, and Premium Protection – each offering more advanced features than the previous one. To understand the differences between them, you can check out the Plans and Pricing section on their website.One thing to keep in mind is that while each version of BullGuard shows a locked VPN icon on the dashboard, the VPN doesn’t come with any of the plans. You would need to purchase this tool separately if you want to use it. Overall, BullGuard provides robust security solutions for users looking to protect their devices from malware and cyber-attacks.
Real-time protection
Real-time protection is an integral feature of antivirus and antimalware tools. It involves a continuous process that runs in the background, constantly monitoring the system for new threats and eliminating them instantly. The absence of real-time protection means that users may not notice a virus until they perform an antivirus scan, which could be catastrophic for their PC.BullGuard is one such software that excels in providing real-time protection to its users. Independent tests have shown that BullGuard detects up to 100% of threats before they can even install on your device. This level of protection ensures the safety and security of your device from various forms of malware like viruses, Trojans, worms, ransomware, spyware, adware, and others.Moreover, BullGuard’s advanced behavioral detection technology proactively identifies and blocks emerging threats in real-time. Its multi-layered defense mechanism includes signature-based detection, heuristic analysis, and AI-powered machine learning algorithms. These features make BullGuard one of the best choices for ensuring comprehensive protection against modern-day cyber threats.
Antivirus scans
BullGuard, like most antivirus programs, provides three different types of scans: Quick Scan, Full Scan, and Custom Scan. The scanning process is lightweight and doesn’t use up a lot of system resources. Even during a Full Scan, the CPU usage never exceeded 0.4%. However, the Custom Scan option is rather limited since it only allows users to scan a single file or folder without the option to select multiple folders or set a specific scan start time.Furthermore, the scanning process in BullGuard is unconventional since it does not open a separate window for scanning. Instead, users can only see a small loading bar on the Antivirus section of the main dashboard, which may seem unintuitive for some users. If you want more customized scanning options such as scanning web traffic, you can access them through the Advanced tab of the feature. Overall, although BullGuard offers effective virus protection with its various scanning options, its custom scan option may lack certain functionalities that some users may require.
Backup
BullGuard Internet Security and Premium Protection both offer their users a cloud backup feature, which provides up to 5 GB of encrypted online storage. This feature ensures that your important data is safe and secure, even if something unfortunate happens to your device. With the automatic backup option, you can rest easy knowing that your files are being backed up daily without any additional effort from you.The cloud backup feature also allows for easy retrieval of files and information, making it an ideal option for those who need to access their data quickly and efficiently. This feature can be especially useful in cases where devices are lost or damaged, or when data is accidentally deleted.In addition to the convenience factor, cloud backup offers an added layer of protection against cyber threats such as ransomware attacks. By storing your data in a secure online location, you can prevent cybercriminals from accessing and holding your files hostage for ransom.Overall, the cloud backup feature offered by BullGuard Internet Security and Premium Protection is an excellent way to safeguard your important data and ensure peace of mind.
Game Booster
BullGuard’s Game Booster feature, available on all versions of the software, is intended to enhance your video gaming experience. It identifies when you’re playing a game and optimizes your CPU performance by directing other active applications and background processes to a single core, freeing up the remaining cores for optimal performance during gameplay. This ensures that your computer’s resources are utilized to their fullest potential, resulting in improved frame rates and reduced lag, leading to an overall smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.Moreover, Game Booster also enables gamers to customize their settings for each game they play, ensuring that every title they play performs at its best. By tweaking graphics settings and adjusting resolution options or other settings, gamers can easily optimize their gaming experience for maximum enjoyment. With this feature, BullGuard provides a comprehensive solution for gamers who want to get the most out of their gaming sessions without any interruptions or distractions from background tasks.
PC Tune Up
PC Tune Up is a feature that can optimize your computer performance. By configuring its options, you can automate the process of cleaning up cache files from your browsers, clearing your Windows Temp folder, emptying the Recycle Bin, and deleting other unnecessary files such as memory dumps.Regularly performing these optimizations can significantly improve your PC’s speed and efficiency. It is also important to note that PC Tune Up offers several other features such as defragmentation, registry cleaning, and startup management that can further enhance your computer’s performance.Moreover, PC Tune Up can help prolong the lifespan of your computer by reducing the strain on its hardware components. By removing unnecessary files and programs, it frees up valuable storage space and reduces the amount of data that needs to be processed by your CPU and RAM.Overall, PC Tune Up is an essential tool for anyone looking to optimize their computer’s performance and ensure it runs smoothly for years to come.
Parental Control
BullGuard, like many other antivirus tools, provides a parental control feature called Parental Control that allows parents to create a separate profile for their child. This profile can block inappropriate content such as adult content, pages displaying violence or drugs, and even social networks and shopping sites.Parents can also set up a schedule that limits their child’s access to the PC or internet during certain hours of the day. With BullGuard’s Parental Control feature, parents have greater control over their child’s online activities and can ensure their safety while browsing the web. It is an effective tool that helps parents monitor and regulate their child’s internet usage without having to hover over them all the time.
Home Network Scanner
BullGuard’s Home Network Scanner is a feature that comes with the most high-end version of the antivirus software. It has the ability to scan your home wifi network for any security vulnerabilities, including open ports, and provides users with a list of all connected devices. To test its capabilities, we ran the scanner on our own network and were initially disappointed as it only detected our router. However, we received a notification moments later when our phone connected to the same network, proving that the feature did work after all. Overall, Home Network Scanner is a valuable tool for those who want to ensure their home network is secure from potential threats.
Ultimate Identity Protection
BullGuard Premium Protection provides its owners with an exclusive feature called Ultimate Identity Protection, which is quite similar to Dark Web scanners offered by other security and privacy tools. This feature notifies you instantly when it detects that your private information has been exposed online. You can select the information you want to monitor by filling in the forms provided by BullGuard. The data can include personal details such as phone number, email address, credit card details, or even driving license information.With the rise of cybercrime and identity thefts, Ultimate Identity Protection is a valuable addition to BullGuard’s security suite. The feature helps users stay informed about potential threats and take necessary actions to prevent any financial or reputational damage. The service is easy to use and highly customizable, allowing users to choose what data they wish to keep an eye on and receive alerts only for relevant incidents. Overall, Ultimate Identity Protection is a significant step towards protecting one’s digital identity and ensuring peace of mind in today’s digital age.
Plans and Pricing
BullGuard provides three different versions of its antivirus software- Antivirus, Internet Security, and Premium Protection. Each plan has varied pricing depending on the subscription length and the number of devices that you want to cover. The Antivirus plan is suitable for basic protection against viruses and malware while Internet Security offers additional features such as a firewall, parental controls, and spam filtering. The Premium Protection plan includes all of the features mentioned above as well as identity protection and home network scanning. With BullGuard’s range of options, you can choose the plan that fits your needs best.
Version & Features
| Version | Features | Price |
| BullGuard Antivirus | Real-time protection, anti-phishing, anti-malware, anti-ransomware, dynamic machine learning (offline protection), behavioral engine, vulnerability scanner, Game Booster, and live chat support. | From $23.99 |
| BullGuard Internet Security | Everything in BullGuard Antivirus, plus Secure Browser, Firewall, Parental Control, Cloud Integrated Backup, PC Tune Up, Android Protection, and macOS Protection. | From $29.99 |
| BullGuard Premium Protection | Everything in BullGuard Internet Security, plus Home Network Scanner and Ultimate Identity Protection. | From $40.00 |
This product boasts an impressive array of payment options, ranging from credit and debit cards to PayPal, PayNearMe, and wire transfer. Additionally, every purchase comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to test the software without any financial risk. This feature is particularly useful as it enables you to determine if the product aligns with your needs before committing to a long-term investment.The availability of multiple payment options ensures that customers can choose the one that is most convenient for them. The 30-day money-back guarantee also provides customers with peace of mind by assuring them that they can return the product within a specified period if they are not satisfied. These features demonstrate the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and make it a reliable choice in the market.
BullGuard Antivirus
BullGuard Antivirus is an entry-level version of the antivirus software that provides essential features to protect your device from online threats. It includes real-time scanning, which detects and removes malware, ransomware, phishing attempts, and other online threats. The offline protection feature keeps your device safe even when it’s not connected to the internet. Additionally, the vulnerability scanner checks for any weak points in your system that could be exploited by hackers. The Game Booster feature optimizes your computer’s performance while gaming, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted experience. Overall, BullGuard Antivirus is a reliable option for basic protection against cyber threats. It exclusively applies to one device and only works with the Windows operating system, which may make it appear somewhat restricted.
Subscription & Price (1 device)
| Subscription | Price (1 device) |
| 1 year | $23.99 |
| 2 years | $38.39 |
| 3 years | $47.99 |
When it comes to purchasing a subscription, it is important to consider the different plans available and their cost-effectiveness. Long-term plans are often the best option for those looking to save money in the long run. The three-year subscription plan is particularly advantageous, as it offers the best value for money. If you’re unsure about committing to a subscription, many services offer a free trial period that allows you to test out the service before making a decision. For instance, some platforms provide a 15-day free trial period that can help you determine if the service meets your requirements before committing to a long-term plan.
BullGuard Internet Security
BullGuard Antivirus and Internet Security are two of the most popular antivirus software in the market today. While both offer excellent protection against cyber threats, there is a significant difference between them. The primary distinction lies in the selection of platforms; BullGuard Internet Security can be used not just on Windows but also on macOS and Android devices. Moreover, the subscription offers coverage for three, five, or ten devices, making it an ideal choice for those who use multiple devices. With its advanced features like firewall protection, parental controls, and vulnerability scanner, Bullguard Internet Security provides comprehensive security against all types of online threats. This edition includes a secure web browser, a firewall, Parental Control options, Cloud backup, and a PC optimization tool, in addition to the features offered in Antivirus.
| Subscription | 3 devices | 5 devices | 10 devices |
| 1 year | $29.99 | $41.99 | $70.49 |
| 2 years | $49.99 | $67.49 | $112.99 |
| 3 years | $59.99 | $83.99 | $140.99 |
When it comes to choosing between Internet Security and Antivirus software, the length of the free trial can be a significant factor. Fortunately, the free trial period for Internet Security is twice as long as that of Antivirus. With 30 days to test the tool completely for free, you can ensure that it meets all your security needs before committing to purchase. This extended trial period allows ample time to evaluate all the features and capabilities of the software without any financial commitment.
BullGuard Premium Protection
BullGuard Premium Protection is the priciest and feature-laden edition of BullGuard. It comes equipped with additional functionalities such as the Home Network Scanner and Ultimate Identity Protection. The Home Network Scanner enables users to scan their home network for security vulnerabilities, thus securing all devices connected to the network from cyber threats. On the other hand, the Ultimate Identity Protection feature offers advanced protection against identity theft by monitoring online activities and alerting users if their personal information is compromised. These additional features make BullGuard Premium Protection an attractive option for those who prioritize security and want comprehensive protection for their digital life.
Furthermore, it includes coverage for either 10 or 15 devices, making it an ideal solution for small businesses.
| Subscription | 10 devices | 15 devices |
| 1 year | $40.00 | $56.00 |
| 2 years | $64.00 | $89.60 |
| 3 years | $80.00 | $112.00 |
Premium Protection is a security software that offers a free trial period of 30 days, similar to many other internet security programs. During this time, users have the opportunity to test out the software’s features and determine if it meets their needs. This allows individuals to make an informed decision before investing in the software and ensures that they are getting the best protection for their devices.
Is BullGuard worth the money?
BullGuard is an antivirus tool that provides reliable protection against viruses and malware at a moderate price point. While it may not be the most affordable option on the market, it is still more cost-effective than some of its pricier counterparts. One of BullGuard’s advantages is the variety of plans that they offer, allowing users to select the one that suits their needs best in terms of device count and subscription length. However, if you’re working with a tight budget, there are alternatives like Bitdefender that provide quality protection at a lower cost. It is important to weigh your options carefully when selecting an antivirus tool to ensure that you get the best possible protection for your devices without breaking the bank.
Ease of use & setup
Setting up BullGuard is a straightforward process that involves downloading the .exe file and running the Installation Wizard. The app’s layout may not be to everyone’s liking, with some users finding the user interface confusing despite advertising an “intuitive UI” during setup. For instance, setting up features using little drop-down menus on the home screen may not be very convenient. However, once the setup is complete, BullGuard offers robust security features to keep your device safe from malware and other online threats. It includes features like antivirus protection, firewall, vulnerability scanner, and parental controls. Users can also customize their settings and preferences according to their needs. Overall, while the initial setup experience may not be perfect, BullGuard remains a reliable option for ensuring online security.
Taking screenshots of an app can be a helpful tool for navigating its features. In this case, it proved useful in simplifying the app’s interface. However, it is worth noting that the design of the app could use some improvements to make it look more modern and up-to-date. One notable aspect that needs attention is the absence of a dark mode, which may deter some users who prefer this feature on their apps. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, utilizing screenshots can be an effective way to enhance one’s experience with an app.
BullGuard desktop apps
BullGuard antivirus software provides various features depending on the operating system on which it is installed. The Windows version of BullGuard offers maximum functionality, including all the features highlighted in BullGuard reviews. However, if you are a macOS user, you may find that BullGuard lacks in terms of features as it only provides basic functionalities such as scanning, real-time protection, and quarantine. Therefore, it is imperative to check whether an antivirus application supports your operating system and whether it provides all the necessary features to meet your security needs before downloading it. Additionally, some antivirus applications may differ in their performances and impact on system resources across different operating systems. Hence, it’s essential to choose an antivirus software that’s compatible with your OS and meets your specific requirements for optimal protection.
BullGuard Mobile app
The Android version of BullGuard app offers a range of features that are more functional compared to the macOS application. The app includes a virus scanner, parental control module, file backup, and anti-theft feature. The anti-theft feature allows users to lock, track or wipe out their device remotely. Additionally, the parental control module can also access photos saved on the device and track its location. However, the wifi security feature seems limited on Android as it only checks whether the wifi network is password-protected. Despite its basic interface, the app’s functionality makes it a reliable choice for Android users looking for comprehensive mobile security solutions.
Although an iOS version is currently unavailable, I found the app to be user-friendly and enjoyable. It would be a valuable addition to iPhone owners, especially with features like Anti-Theft. If you’re looking for an antivirus with an iOS app, check out our article on the Best Antivirus Apps for iPhones and iPads in 2024. Our article provides detailed information on the top-rated antivirus apps that offer comprehensive protection for your Apple devices. With a wide range of features such as anti-phishing, anti-spyware, and real-time scanning, these apps are sure to keep your device secure from all kinds of threats.
Customer Support
BullGuard’s support team is readily available to assist with any technical difficulties or queries you may have. Their live chat feature is the quickest way to receive help, although it is only accessible on weekdays from 02.00 AM to 04.00 PM EST due to the customer support team being based in the UK. Nonetheless, I tested the chat function and found the agent to be very helpful and friendly. In addition to live chat, BullGuard provides other avenues for customer support, including email and phone support. They also offer a comprehensive knowledge base on their website where users can find answers to common questions and troubleshooting tips. Overall, BullGuard’s commitment to customer service ensures that users can get the assistance they need quickly and efficiently.
If the live chat support is unavailable, there are still several options available to receive assistance from BullGuard. One of these is sending an email to [email protected]. Another option is to browse through their knowledge base, which provides detailed product guides.For more specialized support, BullGuard also offers paid customer service for services like virus removal, program installation, and PC optimization. The cost of this service varies depending on the number of interventions required. This extra level of customer support can be beneficial for users who need more personalized assistance with their software-related issues.
How good is BullGuard antivirus?
BullGuard is a reliable anti-malware tool that can cater to most of your online security requirements. It has consistently maintained an excellent virus detection rate for several years, which means it can effectively perform its primary function. Although the software appears to offer numerous additional features, a closer inspection reveals that most of them are relatively basic and do not provide anything more than what other anti-malware tools offer. However, BullGuard does have some unique features, such as identity protection, parental controls, and a game booster function that can enhance your gaming experience. Overall, BullGuard is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable anti-malware tool with some additional features to enhance their online security.
BullGuard users need not worry about whether the antivirus software has everything they need, as it has recently been acquired by NortonLifeLock. The merger means that BullGuard will soon become a part of Norton Antivirus, which is known for its comprehensive security features and exceptional performance. With Norton’s reputation for providing top-notch protection against various online threats such as viruses, malware, spyware, and phishing attacks, users can rest assured that their devices and personal information are in safe hands.
BullGuard antivirus Review 2024: FAQS
Is BullGuard Internet Security any good?
BullGuard Internet Security is an effective antivirus and antimalware solution that provides valuable security functionalities such as real-time protection, antivirus scans, PC optimization, Parental Controls, and Cloud storage.
Is BullGuard better than Norton?
NortonLifeLock has purchased BullGuard and intends to integrate it into Norton antivirus. Currently, both programs are effective, with Norton slightly surpassing BullGuard in features, functionality, and design. Notably, Norton provides an iOS app, whereas BullGuard does not.
Does BullGuard protect against malware?
Certainly. BullGuard offers real-time protection against malware for your device. If you install the software on a computer that is already infected, a full system scan will be required to detect all the threats.
